Tag: hot work

In the maritime industry, the safety of seafarers is paramount, particularly when it comes to managing the risks associated with hot work.

In September 2023, the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) carried out Performance-Based Risk Inspections (PBRIs) for 22 production and well operation sites in the Gulf of Mexico.

Burning and welding are among activities most likely to produce fire on board. Many fire incidents have resulted from the ignition of combustible materials or the ignition of structures or debris near the hot work area. However, these activities can be performed safely, if proper precautions are taken both before and during such work.

Combustible materials left unprotected near hot work led to a fire on a passenger vessel in New Orleans, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said. The fire resulted in $1.5 million in damages to the vessel.

NTSB published a report on March 23rd, 2022, concerning a fire that was reported on the commercial fish processor Aleutian Falcon while the vessel was docked for repairs at the Trident Seafoods shipyard in Tacoma, Washington.

Transport Malta issued an investigation report on the fatal burn injury of a fitter onboard the bulk carrier 'Iolcos Unity' in June 2020. The incident occurred as the fitter was using an angle grinder which generated sparks on its covered-with-oil overall. 

RMI issued an investigation report on the fatal electrocution of a fitter onboard the tanker ANGEL 17 while underway in South Pacific in October 2020. After the incident, the company’s SMS was amended to require using insulating mats for any electrical welding in wet or damp areas.

Following the release of Swedish Club's casebook, it is described a case where a container vessel had caught fire during hot work.

Transport Malta's MSIU issued an investigation report on a fatality and another serious injury of two crew members onboard the Maltese registered bulk carrier MV Balgarka, while involved in repairs in dry-docking at the Bulyard Shipyard, Bulgaria, in October 2018. 

The ATSB issued an investigation report on the fire onboard the general cargo ship 'BBC Xingang', while berthed at Mayfield number four berth in Newcastle, New South Wales, in December 2017. The incident highlights that, prior to hot work, cargo coverings should be carefully assessed and adequate protection should be provided.